opt
verb (used without object)
to make a choice; choose (usually followed byfor ).
opt
1 American
[opt]
/ ɒpt /
verb (used without object)
verb phrase
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opt in to decide to make use of or take part in something.
To receive automatic updates, opt in under the email notification section.
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opt out to decide to withdraw from or not take part in something.
You can opt out of the pension plan, but you lose the employer and government contribution.
opt.
2
American
abbreviation
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optative.
-
optical.
-
optician.
-
optics.
-
optional.
opt
British
/ ɒpt /
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of opt
First recorded in 1875–80; from French opter “to choose, divide,” from Latin optāre “to wish for, desire, pray for, choose, select”
Explanation
To opt is to choose. Given the alternative, most kids will opt for a cupcake over a ham sandwich. When you're signing up for next semester's classes, you might opt for another history class, or instead opt for advanced biology. Whenever you have more than one alternative, you have the chance to opt for something. You can also opt out of something, or choose not to do it at all. Opt comes from the French verb opter, "to choose," from the Latin root optare, "desire," and it's related to option.
Vocabulary lists containing opt
Persepolis
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This Week In Words: Current Events Vocab for October 24–30, 2020
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Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Agents whose listings were removed, but who still want them to be displayed, can ask their managing broker to opt into Zillow syndication directly through Zillow’s website.
From Barron's • May 21, 2026
As a millennial with almost two decades of dating experience and scores of first dates under my belt, I opt almost exclusively for drinks.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026
“Guests should be able to expressly opt in to this type of sensitive facial recognition technology with written consent — the onus of privacy rights should not be on the victim.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026
In other cases, companies might feel the allegations are bunk—but still opt to settle.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 12, 2026
But, pretty soon, I opt to just lie on my bed, looking up at the ceiling and listening to the wheezing sound of my breath ing.
From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
